948 The Bible is Our Authority - 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Who has authority over the choices you make?   "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NASB   As a community and a group of people, the conversation stops at the Bible. The Bible is our authority. We believe God is powerful enough to get his point across to his creation. Sure, there are many ways to interpret scripture incorrectly or inaccurately. But God's word is there if we look for him we will see him.   That's why the Bible is our authority. We also listen to the Holy Spirit living in us. And we listen to scholars and church elders and to friend who are well versed in their relationship with God. But in the end, if something contradicts scripture, we don't trust it.   We want to treat the Bible as our employee manual or owner's manual. It's the manual our Owner wrote for us to flourish in this life he has given us. That's why, even when we defend differences and encourage individual initiative, we also acknowledge the authority of the Bible.   Our 4th guiding principle is trusting in the authority of scripture and using the Bible as our direction from God. The author of this book is also the God of the universe and the One we follow.   Today, let's be energized in our commitment to follow him. Let's serve the people around us because Jesus served. And then let's watch God work and enjoy the show!